1. India’s Nationally Determined Contribution (2031-2035)

• Emission Intensity Reduction: India has committed to reducing the emissions intensity of its Gross Domestic Product (GDP) by 47% by the year 2035, using 2005 levels as the baseline. • Non-Fossil Fuel Transition: The nation aims to achieve 60% cumulative electric power installed capacity from non-fossil fuel-based energy resources by 2035, building on the early achievement of previous targets. • Carbon Sink Expansion: A target has been set to create an additional carbon sink of 3.5 to 4.0 billion tonnes of $CO_{2}$ equivalent through enhanced forest and tree cover by 2035. • Strategic Alignment: These commitments are synchronized with the long-term vision of Viksit Bharat @2047 and the ultimate goal of achieving Net-Zero emissions by 2070. • Policy Integration: The NDC is operationalized through the National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC) and its missions, emphasizing a \'whole-of-government\' approach involving both Central and State levels. • Global Leadership: India’s strategy incorporates international partnerships like the International Solar Alliance (ISA) and Global Bio-fuel Alliance, while adhering to the principle of Common But Differentiated Responsibilities (CBDR-RC). Key Definitions • Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs): Climate action plans submitted by countries under the Paris Agreement to outline targets for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and adapting to climate impacts. • Emissions Intensity: The volume of emissions per unit of GDP; it measures the carbon efficiency of economic growth rather than absolute emission limits. • Carbon Sink: A natural or artificial reservoir (like forests or oceans) that absorbs and stores more carbon dioxide from the atmosphere than it releases. Constitutional and Legal Provisions • Article 48A (DPSP): Mandates that the State shall endeavor to protect and improve the environment and safeguard the forests and wildlife of the country. • Article 51A(g) (Fundamental Duties): It is the duty of every citizen to protect and improve the natural environment including forests, lakes, rivers, and wildlife. • Environment Protection Act, 1986: Provides the framework for the protection and improvement of the environment and for matters connected therewith. • The Energy Conservation (Amendment) Act, 2022: Facilitates the development of a Carbon Credit Trading Scheme and mandates the use of non-fossil energy sources. Additional Key Points • Adaptation Measures: Focus includes MISHTI for mangrove restoration, Heat Action Plans, and glacier monitoring in the Himalayan region to mitigate GLOF (Glacial Lake Outburst Flood) risks. • People-Centric Initiatives: The LiFE (Lifestyle for Environment) movement and \'Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam\' encourage individual responsibility in climate action. • Global Stocktake (GST): This NDC update considers the outcomes of the first GST, ensuring India\'s targets align with global collective progress under the Paris Agreement. Conclusion India’s updated NDC for 2031-2035 reflects a matured climate governance model that bridges the gap between developmental imperatives and environmental sustainability. By setting ambitious yet achievable targets ahead of global timelines, India reinforces its status as a \'Climate Leader\' among G20 nations, ensuring that the transition to a green economy remains inclusive, just, and rooted in equity. UPSC Relevance GS Paper II: International Relations (UNFCCC, Paris Agreement), Government Policies and Interventions. GS Paper III: Environmental Pollution and Degradation, Conservation, Energy Sector (Renewable Energy), and Disaster Management. Prelims: NDCs, Net-Zero targets, Carbon Sink values, and specific schemes like PM-KUSUM, ISA, and CDRI.